Dubai ruler approves new $35bn airport terminal
Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, gave a green light on the final design for the new passenger terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport on April 28, 2024.
This announcement comes with the country’s efforts to “prepare the ground for the next 40 years of anticipated growth in Dubai’s aviation sector.”
The world’s largest capacity
Most passengers traveling to Dubai will arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB), which saw 86.9 million passengers in 2023 and is home to the mighty Emirates.
However, nearby Dubai World Central (DWC), also known as Al Maktoum International Airport is rapidly growing as a significant passenger and cargo hub.
With the final designs approved and construction underway, DWC Airport’s status is set to evolve.
Dubai’s ruler al-Maktoum revealed that the five passenger terminals, slated for construction at a cost of AED128 billion ($35 billion), will ultimately increase the airport’s passenger capacity to 260 million annually, and this will let the airport enjoy “the world’s largest capacity.”
He also mentioned that DWC Airport will be five times larger than the current Dubai International Airport, intending to gradually shift all operations from DXB to the new facility over the course of 10 years.
According to the announcement, the project’s initial phase is slated to be completed within the same timeframe, boasting a capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually.
In a discussion on the sidelines, Suzanne Al Anani, CEO of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, said:
400 aircraft gates
Indeed, Dubai has ambitious visions for its DWC Airport. With plans for 400 aircraft gates, five parallel runways, an automated people mover system for passengers, and an integrated landside transport hub for roads, metro, and city air transport, the airport is poised for significant development.
Situated in the desert about 23 miles southeast of the city, DWC currently lacks a direct connection to Dubai’s metro system, with the nearest station being UAE Exchange at the end of the red line.
However, as previously noted, this is slated for change. Speaking on the new passenger terminal building, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum said:
“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn. Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and its new global centre.”
It is worth noting that the airport is anticipated to cover a total area of 70 square kilometers and will be capable of handling a cargo capacity of 12 million tons annually.
simpleflying.com
